The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has issued a summons to actor and television personality Rakhi Sawant in connection with the ongoing investigation into the controversial remarks made during an episode of India’s Got Latent, a YouTube-based show created by comedian Samay Raina. According to reports from news agency ANI, Sawant has been asked to appear before cyber officials on February 27 to record her statement.
Expanding Investigation into ‘India’s Got Latent’ Controversy
Although Rakhi Sawant was not a panellist in the specific episode where podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia made the contentious remarks, she has previously featured as a guest on the show. Authorities have been broadening the scope of their probe, summoning multiple individuals linked to the program. In addition to Sawant, social media influencers and content creators Ashish Chanchlani and Ranveer Allahbadia have also been called in for questioning, with their hearings scheduled for February 24. Meanwhile, comedian Samay Raina, the creator of the show, was denied an extension to appear before the cyber cell and has now been issued a second summons after failing to respond to the first notice on February 18.
Cyber Cell’s Actions and Legal Developments
Inspector General Yashasvi Yadav has confirmed that an FIR has been filed against all members involved in various episodes of India’s Got Latent. Authorities have taken strict action by ordering the removal of all videos currently under investigation and deactivating the show’s online presence until the inquiry is complete. Initially, cyber officials directed Raina to remove the first flagged video, but later instructed the complete removal of all related content.
As of now, a total of 42 individuals, including influencers, producers, and artists, have been summoned as part of the ongoing investigation, according to Yadav. The case has drawn nationwide attention, with multiple FIRs registered against those involved across several states, including Maharashtra and Assam.
Also Read: India’s Got Latent Controversy: Ashish Chanchlani Moves SC To Quash Or Transfer FIR To Mumbai
On February 18, the Supreme Court granted interim protection to Ranveer Allahbadia from arrest. However, the court did not absolve him of responsibility and condemned his remarks, describing them as dirty and perverted.